Travis Hamonic is expected to make his return to the Isles' lineup Saturday in San Jose, Arthur Staple of Newsday reports.

Hamonic is expected to make his return to the Isles' lineup Saturday in San Jose, Arthur Staple of Newsday reports.

Analysis:

Hamonic will be a spectator Thursday versus the Avalanche for the fourth straight game, but coach Jack Capuano noted after the morning skate that he was "very close" to playing the defenseman in the contest. If he's able to avoid any setbacks at practice Friday, there's a strong likelihood that Hamonic would reenter the lineup Saturday.